Holiday Season Safety Tips

Submitted by pubsafetyadmin on Tue, 12/06/2011 - 14:47

The holiday season is a time for giving, sharing and enjoying family and friends. Unfortunately, it's also a season for criminals. Criminals often take advantage of distracted shoppers during the holiday season. The University of Oregon Department of Public Safety encourages everyone to be proactive in taking preventative measures to help keep them from becoming a crime victim, by following the below tips:

· Holiday season always brings an increase in theft · Always lock your doors and windows; this includes both your residence and vehicles. · Have a trusted friend or neighbor check your residence, if you are traveling during the holiday season. · Never leave anything of value in plain sight in your vehicle; this includes cell phones, iPods, laptops, purses, GPS’s & shopping bags. · Don’t fall for scams…most magazine solicitors are scams, never give out your personal information, including your bank card number. · There is strength in numbers. Know your surroundings and use the buddy system. · Use lighted paths after dark and avoid bushes or dense shrubbery. · Use the Assault Prevention Shuttle (541-346-RIDE ext. 2), call a cab or contact the Department of Public Safety (541-346-2919) for an escort. · If going out alone, let someone know where and when you will return. · Call 911 immediately if you see something suspicious or someone is in danger. · If you feel you are in danger or being followed, call the Department of Public Safety at 541-346-6666 if on campus or 9-1-1 when off campus. · Don’t leave valuables unattended. In less than 10 seconds, a laptop, cell phone, backpack, etc., can be stolen from an unattended seat at the library, unlocked office or your vehicle. · Don’t prop open building, laboratory or office doors. · For bicycles, use a U-Bolt type lock. Steel cable locks can be cut in less than 3 seconds. · NEVER drink and drive.